Produced in a combined Indo-Russian venture in Amethi, Uttar Pradesh, the AK-203 ‘Sher’ assault rifle marks a major technological advancement for the Indian military. The project under the Make in India program, which is being manufactured by the Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL), a collaboration between Russian defense giants Rosoboronexport and Kalashnikov and Indian state-owned companies, is to create over 6,00,000 rifles by 2030.
With a maximum rate of 700 rounds per minute, the AK-203 allows for quick reaction in combat scenarios.
It is appropriate for both close-quarters and long-range fighting because it can precisely engage targets up to 800 meters away.
The rifle has a 30-round detachable magazine and is chambered for the popular 7.62×39 mm cartridge.
The AK-203 is lighter than the earlier INSAS rifle (4.15 kg), weighing about 3.8 kg. Its length without the buttstock is 705 mm, whereas the INSAS rifle’s length is 960 mm.
The AK-203, like its Kalashnikov ancestors, has a strong focus on toughness in challenging field circumstances, ease of maintenance, and dependability.
The muzzle velocity of the weapon is 715 meters per second.
Early in 2023, IRRPL started manufacturing at the Korwa plant in Amethi, initially concentrating on completing orders from the Indian Army before looking into paramilitary and export prospects.
The goal is to fully localize the production process in the upcoming years by gradually indigenizing it. More than 35,000 rifles have been delivered as of July 2025, and production is increasing to reach the lofty target of more than 600,000 pieces by 2030.
The outdated INSAS rifles (chambered for 5.56×45 mm) will be replaced with the AK-203, which has a larger caliber and more stopping power.
Indian forces stationed near critical borders, such as the Line of Control and Line of Actual Control, would be equipped with the rifle, which is designed for counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations.
Soldiers can move more easily in a variety of terrains thanks to its small size, less weight, and better ergonomics.
In addition to demonstrating India’s expanding defense manufacturing capabilities, this joint venture is a significant step toward Atmanirbhar Bharat, or self-reliance, in the production of small guns.
Consistency and efficacy in field use are guaranteed by the weapons’ production to exacting quality requirements under authorized Russian technology transfer.
The AK-203 ‘Sher’ rifle, manufactured in Amethi, provides India’s military with a cutting-edge, dependable, and potent infantry weapon that is designed to meet modern operational requirements and is the result of a well-known international partnership.
